Fabrics
Fabric finder
The right cloth does most of the work in hot weather. Set the temperature, the air and the occasion to see the best three options.
Warm-weather fabrics at a glance
| Fabric | Comfort range | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Pure linen, open weave | 26–40°C | The coolest option. Expect creases and accept them. |
| Linen-cotton blend | 22–34°C | Most of the cool feel of linen with fewer creases. The safe all-rounder. |
| Fine-gauge cotton knit | 18–30°C | Textured, forgiving and hides creases. Perfect for camp-collar shirts. |
| Lightweight cotton (poplin, voile) | 20–33°C | Crisp and smart. Choose a loose fit and a light colour. |
| Seersucker | 26–38°C | The puckered stripe holds fabric off the skin. Brilliant in humidity. |
| Tropical wool (hopsack) | 20–32°C | Breathes, keeps a crisp line and resists creasing. The right cloth for weddings. |
| Silk-linen blend | 20–30°C | Soft drape with a gentle sheen. Best in dry heat and for evenings. |
| Lyocell or cupro | 24–36°C | Smooth and fluid, with a cool hand-feel. Check it is not too clingy. |
Three habits that keep fabric looking good
- Steam, do not pressSteam relaxes the fibre and keeps some body in linen and wool.
- Hang it up straight awayUse a wide hanger. Creases set when a garment is left on a chair.
- Wash gently and dry flatKnits keep their shape better dried flat than on a hanger.